Characteristics of Avian Mycoplasma (PPLO) in Tissue Cultures of Human and Avian Cells

Abstract
Four isolates (2 Mycoplasma gallisepticum and 2 nonpathogenic strains of avian Mycoplasma), were propagated in avian kidney cells and in a human cell line (McCoy). The McCoy cell line was particularly susceptible to the avian Mycoplasma. A rather characteristic cytopathogenic effect (CPE) was produced by the 4 Mycoplasma strains in both the McCoy cell line and avian kidney cells. When unknown cytopathic agents are encountered in cell culture systems, extensive cultural examination should be employed to eliminate the presence of PPLO before the CPE is credited to a "virus." The McCoy cell line is highly susceptible to PPLO and appears to be a good system for fundamental research on avian Mycoplasma.